The medallion is in silver, measures 29.4 mm and weighs 17.4 g not including the suspension. The suspension device is in gilded brass and enamels. This first version of the medallion features an eyelet that is a separate piece soldered to the medal (same as on Variation 1 medals for defense and liberation of cities in WW2). The suspension is also a very early model, measuring 31.0 mm in width and approx. 10 to 10.5 mm in height near the central dividing band - smaller in both width and height than the later versions.

In very fine to excellent condition. The medallion is essentially perfect, with pristine details of the artwork; there are just a few very tiny, barely noticeable dings to the raised edge on the reverse.

The enamel on the suspension shows a minor amount of rubbing, a couple of minuscule hairlines, and a few tiny surface flakes at the bottom, otherwise intact.